Jamiatul Ulama (Council of Muslim Theologians), Johannesburg

Title: Vandalism against a Masjid in Tzaneen
Date: 15 June 2004
Author:  Jamiatul Ulama
Agency: Jamiatul Ulama
Following reports of desecrating and vandalism against a masjid in Tzaneen, the Jamiatul Ulama has spoken to the Tzaneen Muslim Jamaat and the Jamaat has ascertained that the people behind the vandalism were apprehended.

The masjid, built about ten months ago, was broken into, in the basement, which is used as an extra Salâh [prayer] facility, was burned with cigarettes and the butts left there. They proceeded upstairs to the main Salâh area where they threw used condoms and spilled brandy on the carpets. They also spilled brandy on copies of the Qur’ân, smashed and destroyed a frame with Allâh's name on it and broke liquor bottles in the yard!

These acts were perpetrated by youth whose parents have approached the authorities to admit the wrong-doing of their wards. The parents have also undertake to bear the cost of the restoration from the damage done to the Masjid.

Out of the three alleged perpetrators, one was above the age of eighteen and has since been released on bail. The other two were juvenile offenders who were released into the custody of their parents.

The Jamiatul Ulama is in contact with the Imâm of the town to monitor developments so as to advise accordingly.
Source: Jamiatul Ulama

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